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C M Y K
THURSDAY
January 02 | 2014 | 29 Safar 1435 AH | PAGES 12 |
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http://www.zabarwantimes.com
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VOL NO: 4 | ISSUE NO: 02 | RS: 2/- (AIR SURCHARGE FOR JAMMU /DELHI/LEH 50 PAISA)
Jus
tice
Largely Circulated, No. 1 Bilingual Daily of J&K
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Scores Century
ar ne d e r se ove hou c e sr arm ive f’s f s plo rra Ex sha u M
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Snow brings chaos to people Srinagar, Jan 1: Few inches of snowfall turned the valley in darkness raising question mark over government’s tall claims. People continue to face immense hardships for the second consecutive day Wednesday as electricity, water and other essential supplies were missing in many areas. Reports received by KNS said that few areas of old city and uptown received a few shots of electricity barely for a few minutes from last 24 hours, while the PDD department made repeated claims about electricity being restored in the Valley. “Authorities always assure us of doing everything during the crises but when it comes to reality they fail to do so,” Bashir Ahmad of Bemina said adding the authorities should own the moral responsibility for the failure and tender apology to the people forthwith. The situation is worst in district headquarters, villages and far flung areas face power See Snow Brings on Pg. 11
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For maximising outreach of Rural Dev schemes
es uc r d e ce hr ac f can e P ko ris See More On Page 07
Why should Khyber and Kanwal be allowed to publicize their products till the outcome of the High Court proceedings, ask the people From our special correspondent Srinagar, Jan 01: The people of the valley have appealed the govt to impose blanket ban on Khyber Agro Milk and Kanwal Masala publicity campaign till their fate is decided by the Hon’ble High Court and the Human Rights Commission which are looking into the allegations of their adulteration case. After the Hon’ble High Court’s direction to the Khyber Agro , Kanwal Masala and Avon Agro to deposit Rs. Ten Crores each with SKIMS, The state Human Rights Commission which is also hearing the adulteration case has directed the Municipal Corporation and District Administration to be present and put forth their line of action in the case. Taking to Zabarwan Times the member of the commission Fida Hussain said that the commission has the responsi-
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bilities of protecting the rights of the people and the right to live without being subjected to health hazards by some greedy people is the foremost amongst them. He said that the commission will look into the allegations very minutely and take the case to the logical conclusion. When contacted the Deputy Commission Srinagar Farooq Ahmad Shah said that the samples of not only Khyber Milk and Kanwal Masala but of other companies have also been taken for fresh tests and stern action will be taken if any of the companies was found guilty. He said that nobody will be spared even if he has highest influence and connections. When asked why the administration is not stopping the vigorous publicity campaign launched by these companies in the local press till, the outcome of the judicial proceedings, he said that as the case is subjudice the Hon’ble
Court only can decide about everything connected with the case. Meanwhile the leading doctors of the state including Dr. R.K. Sapru, Dr. Gulzar, Dr.Javid and others have said that even otherwise the excessive use of masalas “Spices” can cause enormous health problems as it initially results in the irritation and ultimately leads to cancer like dreaded disease of stomach. They said that the stomach and food pipe ulceration is a normal result of the usage of excessive spices. The doctors further said that when adulteration is done with certain chemicals, these spices become dangerous for health. They have appealed the people to avoid these spices and if they use them, the usage should be minimum. The matter of adulteration which has assumed shape of a serious problem has also been
brought to the notice of the Union Health Minister Ghulam Nabi Azad. A memorandum has been sent to him by some social activist as the subject matter comes under the jurisdiction of his ministry. The Hon’ble Supreme Court direction on 5th December in a similar milk adulteration case asking the govt to make the crime punishable for life term has also been received very seriously by the central govt which is contemplating the desired action in this regard. Now, it remains to be seen when the law in this connection will be amended if the central govt. is serious enough about the health of its citizens. The doctors, the social activists and civil society has said that the goal of health for all by 2020 cannot be achieved if the adulteration of milk, spices and other food items goes on unabated. Meanwhile utilizing See Why Should on Pg. 11
Be responsive to public needs: Omar to Administration Srinagar, Jan 01: Chief Minister, Omar Abdullah Wednesday received first hand appraisal of the restoration of important public services and mitigation of difficulties resulted due to heavy snowfall in the Valley. Chairing a high level meeting of divisional officers here this afternoon, the Chief Minister reviewed the measures put in place by the administration to attend to the road clearance operation, supply of
electricity, drinking water, stock and supply position of essential commodities, functioning of health institutions, status of National Highway and plying of traffic on various district routes, Srinagar city and towns. The Chief Minister also ascertained the preparedness of the administration to face any future eventuality of heavy snowfall as also the arrangements made for Eid-I-Milad-UNSee Omar on Pg. 11
Air traffic restored, highway shut for second day Srinagar, Jan 01: The crucial Jammu-Srinagar highway remained closed for second day today, while the airlines resumed operations, even as fresh snowfall was reported from many area of the Valley on Wednesday. Official sources told Global News Service that 300-km long Srinagar-Jammu highway remained closed for vehicular traffic for the second day today due to landslides at Panthal and fresh snowfall around Jawahar Tunnel. Over 500 vehicles were stranded at the highway, as the fresh snowfall hampered the efforts of Beacon officials to See Air Traffic on Pg. 11
Step Towards Development of Villages
Under dynamic leadership of Hon'ble Chief Minister Jenab Omar Abdullah and guidance / persuasion of Jenab Ali Mohmammad Sagar Hon'ble Minister for Rural Development & Panchayati Raj J&K, the department has laid a mile stone by sanctioning one Model Village in each Assembly Constituency.
As a step towards fulfilling this commitment Jenab Ali Mohammad Sagar Sahib
(Hon’ble Minister for Rural Development & Panchayati Raj J&K) laid the foundation stone of Model Village Warpora Block Zaingeer (Sopore)
in presence of
Jenab Sharief-ud-Din Shariq Hon`ble Member Parliament Jenab Javed Ahmad Dar Hon`ble MLA Rafiabad and
Jenab Mohammad Ashraf Ganaie Hon’ble MLA Sopore The Model Village will be developed at a cost of Rs. 112 lacs and will be having a modern Common Facility Centre, one Rural Information Centre, Playground, one Anganwadi Centre, Lanes and Drains and Sanitation Facilities. At this occasion Hon’ble Minister for Rural Development & Panchayati Raj J&K addressed a huge public gathering and appealed people to come forward and actively participate in various developmental schemes of the department so that they can avail maximum benefits of these schemes
Department of Rural Development and Panchayati Raj J&K Government District Baramulla
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11 Thursday, 02 January 2014 From Front Page........
Why Should.........
the opportunity the other masala and milk companies have joined the fray and are now trying to overtake the market and encash the situation caused by the controversy of Khyber, Kanwal and Avon. People have demanded that the samples of these companies should also be collected and sent for tests to National Food testing Laboratory Calcutta so that their claims of producing the best quality milk and spices are ascertained in proper way. People ask What if these samples are found adultered and the companies are sailing in the same boat and trying to confuse the customers by befooling them with their vigorous publicity campaign.
Omar...........
Nabi (SAW). Omar Abdullah also got brief about the necessary relief extended to the fire sufferers of Dhobighat Hazratbal. The Chief Minister has sanctioned relief of Rs.20,000 each to the 32 families whose houses have gutted in the devastating fire. These families have also been sanctioned Rs.5000 each out of Red Cross fund. The Chief Minister was told that under his directions the Advisor to the Chief Minister, Qamar Ali Akhoon visited the affected families and handed over the cheques to them. He was told that relief and rehabilitation operation for fire affected families is on full swing. Emphasizing on the responsibility of administration to be on beck and call of the people in the hour of need, the Chief Minister asked the officers of the government to be prompt and responsive to the requirements of people on all counts. He said the road clearance and restoration of important public services that have been affected by the heavy snowfall should be first concern of the government officials. “There is urgent need of keeping eye on hoarders, blackmarketers and unscrupulous elements who utilize the unfavourable situation for increasing the prices and creating false scarcity of essentials”, he said directing the Divisional Administration to be vigilant and make regular market checking a necessary feature in the daily functioning. He also asked them to make sure that sufficient quantity of essentials and fuel is available across the Valley adding that proper and smooth distribution needs to be underlined as a primary concern by the administration. The Chief Minister received brief about the action taken by the administration to mitigate difficulties on various counts as also its preparedness to be alert to face eventualities. He was given detailed account of the stock and supply position of essentials, restoration of public services including clearance of roads, power and water supply. It was given out in the meeting that adequate essential commodities sufficient for one month are stocked in the Valley besides kerosene oil and LPG. As many as 2.15 lakh quintals of rice, 25922 quintals of sugar, 93700 quintals of wheat, 6124 kilo litres of kerosene oil, 3.50 lakh LPG cylinders, 11256 kilo litres of diesel and 2899 kilo litres of petrol are presently stocked in the Valley. The Chief Minister was told that 80 percent electric supply will be restored in the Valley by this evening while it will be 90 percent in Srinagar and North Kashmir districts. As many as 6000 kilometres of roads have been cleared of snow by the R&B Department while the Mechanical Department has made all most all major roads pliable. The work on clearance of interior roads, lanes and by-lanes is on apace.
Air Traffic..........
make the highway through. “No vehicle was allowed to ply on the highway because of the fresh snowfall. Efforts are on to make the highway through. If weather remains pleasant, the highway will reopen tomorrow for vehicular traffic,” a senior official of Traffic Police told GNS. The air traffic, however, restored today after the visibility improved. Only Srinagar-Leh flight was cancelled due to bad weather, while flights operated normally. Officials said that five families comprising twenty-four people, including women and children were rescued by police from Marsha Nallah in Kund, area of south Kashmir’s Kulgam district. All of them were removed to safer places.
Snow Brings..........
cuts and intra-district road connectivity was hit too. In districts and sub districts people face hardships due to unavailability of electricity and water. Snowfall has also damaged distribution lines in many remote areas in north Kashmir and south Kashmir. “Within less than an hour, like in the past, electricity was snapped in our areas, chilling weather condition has added to our woe. Electricity disappeared from our colony with first snowflakes touching the earth. It is now more than 18 hours and there is no hope to get the power supply,” said Showkat Ahmad of Baramulla here. “The crisis-like situation that has emerged for the government due to a few inches of snowfall raises question about its disaster management efficiency given the weather department had forecasted this snowfall in Kashmir last week,” Mohammad Aslam of Rajbagh told KNS. Meanwhile reports said that in many areas the problems compounded for people by this afternoon as snow started to melt in many low lying areas resulting in water logging.
CD hospital without electricity Srinagar, Jan 1: Scores of attendants and patients staged a massive protest in the compound of Chest Disease Hospital Srinagar after they face huge inconveniences due to electricity failure. The patients requiring Oxygen were put at risk by the Hospital authorities while the protestors alleged that hospital lacks basic facilities as a result the patients suffer heavily. According to CNS, CD
hospital is without electricity from past two days as a result the patients having breathing problem are facing lot of problems. The attendants and patients staged a protest amid chill and alleged that Government is taking no steps to equip the hospital with basic facilities. They said that there is no genset available in the hospital and after every power cut, the sufferings of the patients aggravate.
Daily
ZABARWAN TIMES
PDP’s political infatuation with Modi revealed: NC Srinagar, Jan 1 (KNS): National Conference Provincial President Kashmir on Wednesday said that opposition Peoples Democratic Party’s (PDP) unqualified and continued admiration of Narendra Modi has come to fore yet again. Speaking at Idea Exchange programme at The Indian Express, Mehbooba Mufti has unabashedly stated that a “section of people in J&K” believed that the divisive right-wing Indian leader could take some “positive” and “tough” decisions on Kashmir. This can also be seen as perhaps PDP’s first, unqualified pledge of s u p p o r t f o r M o d i ’s “tough” policy plans for Kashmir – his longstanding dream of abrogating Article 370 and revoking the State’s special status – a “tough” decision he advocated at his rally in Jammu. Mehbooba, seen as a diehard Modi fan has been very forthcoming in her admiration of a Modi-led
NDA. This is the second time in recent times when Mehbooba Mufti has elaborately praised Narendra Modi in a conversation with a select audience at an exclusive event outside J&K. National Conference has been repeatedly expressing alarm at PDP’s unholy alliance of ideological convenience with the BJP. We have clear reasons to believe that Mufti Sayeed and Mehbooba Mufti are being mentored into a tacit alliance with Modi by a retired Intelligence Bureau Director, a senior Indian journalist and a social worker whose dealings in the Valley’s political circuits have been shady, occult and questionable. Mehbooba had earlier admired Modi’s style of politics and his charisma in her speech at the National Integration Council Meet in 2011. In her NIC speech, Mehbooba had said that people were “looking forward” to Narendra Modi’s style and type of
Kamal’s ‘one foot always in his mouth’: Congress Srinagar, Jan 1: Taking strong exception to the statements issued by Mustafa Kamal, additional general secretary National Conference, the Congress on Wednesday said his (Kamal) one foot is always in his mouth. “I reject the statement of Kamal on views experienced by Mr Ghulam Nabi Azad, union minister for health and family welfare. As the general public here realizes that Mr Azad did not say anything which was factually incorrect,” said senior vice president of Congress in Jammu and Kashmir told KNS. Parray added that Azad had reported the feeling of general workers of the Congress in the state and there is hardly anything wrong to which Kamal could have taken exception. “The statement issued by Kamal is in line to what he has been asked to do by National Conference. He
has been given the job at which he is trying to do his bit, albeit, distastefully. Kamal forgets matters like Indus Water Treaty which could have been raised and tackled by his father at least in his tenure in 1975 onwards or for that matter, Dr Farooq during his three stints as the chief minister of the state.” The senior state congress leader remarked: “Public opinion is that Kamal’s one foot is always in his mouth otherwise how could he have talked against army as National Conference MLA who is under oath to abide by the constitution of India in letter and spirit,” he added. Parray also castigated Kamal for his statement on ‘taxes and tariffs’ and government of India’s funding to Jammu and Kashmir, saying that Kamal is mathematically wrong as Jammu and Kashmir is extremely a deficit state.
politics. Speaking at the Idea Exchange Programme, Mehbooba Mufti has alluded to a certain “authority” that Modi apparently commands – one that empowers him to act “tough” on Kashmir and one she and her party are willing to support and facilitate from within the State. This unambiguous pledge of support to Narendra Modi and his longstanding dream of
revoking the State’s special status is harrowing and unacceptable to the people of this State. Nasir further said that PDP had joined hands with BJP in the Legislative Council Elections a last year ago by openly fielding a common candidate for the LC seat. National Conference emerged victorious in that battle and will emerge victorious against all such instances of an unholy nexus between PDP and
BJP. We will not allow Narendra Modi and PDP to harm J&K’s special status and launch a covert assault on our secular ethos by driv ing a commu nal wedge between communities – as was attempted in Kishtwar recently. The people of J&K are now aware of PDP’s plan of wooing BJP into an alliance ahead of the 2014 elections by regularly singing songs of praise in favor of Mr. Modi.
PDP’s tacit, overt or covert alliance with Narendra Modi is unacceptable to the overwhelming majority of people in this State and goes against our history of demonstrated brotherhood, amity and secularism. National Conference is ready to take on a BJP-PDP alliance and will not allow a dilution of the State’s special status – be that by BJP or by PDP or as it appears, by a BJP, PDP alliance, Nasir said.
Office of the Project/Watershed Manager, Watershed Management Division J&K Lakes & Waterways Development Authority Sgr. Tender Notice No: 11 of (2013-14) Dated: 28/12/2013
For and on behalf of J&K Lakes & Waterways Development Authority Srinagar, sealed tenders affixed with Rs: 5/- revenue stamp are invited from the Contractors having Registration in Growing / Planting of Forest / Horticulture Plants for the work listed in Annexure "A" to this NIT as per terms & conditions noted below:Terms & Conditions: 1. The tender documents for the work can be had from the office of the undersigned at Ishber Nishat Srinagar upto 18-01-2014 Upto 2:00 PM on the production of documents as under: (a) Application along with cost of tender document in cash as mentioned in Annexure "A", (b) Registration Cards (c) CDR. 2. Tender documents shall be issued to the intending contractors only on production of Valid Registration Card duly verified / authenticated by Nursery Registration Officer, Horticulture Department in case of Horticulture, while as by the office of Chief Conservator of Forests (Kashmir) Sgr, in case of Forest Registration Cards. 3. While submitting applications, all tenderers are directed to give full details and bio-data for communications such as name, surname, parentage, residential address, registration No, telephone / Mobile No's and any other relevant information and has to enclose photo copy of registration card, failing which application for obtaining of tender documents will not be entertained. 4. The tenders for work listed in Annexure "A" should reach office of the Superintending Engineer, J&K Lakes & Waterways Development Authority, Wali's House Nishat Sgr. on or before 21-01-2014 upto 2 PM. (Last date for Receipt of tenders) 5. The tenders should be supported by the earnest money in the shape of CDR pledged to the Superintending Engineer, J&K Lakes & Waterways Development Authority, Wali's House Nishat Sgr. for the work listed in Annexure "A". Tenders not accompanied with the CDR equivalent to the full amount shall not be considered and shall be rejected even if it may be lowest one. 6. If the date of receipt of tenders is declared as a holiday or the office remains closed due to any unforeseen conditions, the tenders will be received on next working day upto 2 PM. The tenders received after the scheduled date & time shall not be entertained. 7. The tenders will be opened in presence of such tenderers or their representatives who may wish-to be present at the time of opening of tenders on the same day or any other subsequent date as convenient of the opening authority. 8. The intending tenderers should send / cast their tenders in a sealed envelope which should clearly indicate the following: (i) Name of the Contractor with parentage and address (ii) Ref. to NIT. (iii) Name of work (IV) Advertisement Amount of work (v) CDR No. 9. The intending tenderers should quote their item wise rates against each item of rate list clearly and legibly without cuttings, over-writings & duly covered with transparent tape, with each page of document duly signed, failing which the tender shall be rejected. 10. Only such contractors who will purchase the tender documents from this office duly signed by the undersigned / authorized officer shall be eligible for participation in tender process of these works. 11. The tender documents are non-transferable / non-refundable and the documents sold / issued by the Division to any intending tenderer shall be used by that tenderer only. 12. Conditional tenders of any sort or Tenders violative of NIT conditions shall not be entertained at any cost and shall be rejected straight away even though the cost offered by such tenderers is the lowest. 13. The tender opening authority reserves the right to accept or reject any or all the tenders without assigning any reason thereof. 14. The tender shall remain valid for a period of three months from the date of opening of tenders subject to mutual consent for extension. 15. Conditions laid down in the tender documents are to be deemed as a part of the NIT. 16. The intending tenderers are required to read carefully the contents of the NIT / tender documents and assess the site conditions at the site of the work before submission of their tenders. 17. Power of attorney of the contract to some other agency shall not be acceptable to the department except for purpose of payments only to the attorney holder and the contractor shall be responsible for all contractual obligations. 18. Time is the main essence of the work and in case of delay caused by the contractor in completion of work within stipulated period penalty upto extent of 10% of the contract amount shall be imposed on the contractor on the discretion of competent authority of J&K Lakes & Waterways Development Authority Srinagar, in addition to the action taken against the defaulter as warranted. 19. Any item or items not covered / advertised in the rate schedule found necessary during execution of work shall be paid as per FSR 2013/SSR 2008 with allotted appreciation / depreciation of rates. If no appreciation / depreciation of rates is found in allotment, the rate for such item shall be paid as per analyzed rates based on LMR: plus 10% contractors profit to be approved by the competent authority. ; 20. The successful tenderer has to provide copy of the latest Sales Tax Clearance certificate issued by Sales Tax Deptt and license from Labour Commissioners Office at the time of payment. Non production of said certificate stall result in with holding of the final payment. 21. If on the directions of this authority, the work is suspended for some time or altogether abandoned, no compensation shall be payable to the contractor other than payment for work done quantities as per allotted rates. 22. The successful tenderer, if fails to start the work within stipulated time as shown in the allotment order to be issued in his favour, the action against him will be taken as warranted. 23. Any other instruction or orders that competent Authority may deem fit to be issued any time during execution of work, shall be binding on the successful Contractor. 24. Unbalanced Bid: ln case bid of the lowest bidder is found unbalanced, the successful bidder shall have to produce additional performance security in shape of CDR/FDR within 5(Five) days after opening of price bids, as per following break up, if the lowest bidder fails to produce the additional performance deposit within the stipulated time his tender shall be deemed to be rejected:S. No. Percentage of unbalance bid viz, advertised cost on account of Low rates. Additional PerformanceSecurity 01. Upto and including 15% below Nil 02. Greater than 15% and upto 20% below 3% 03. Greater than 20% and upto 25% below 3.5% 04. 05.
Greater than 25% and upto 30% below Greater than 30% below
4% 5%
Selected candidates seek CM’s intervention Srinagar, Jan 01: Career of scores of candidates who were selected for the post of Driver in State Motor Garage department is hanging in balance with the concerned department yet to issue their appointment orders, after their recommendation was put with held by the SSRB with reasons best to known them. A delegation of candidates told KNS that state motor garage department had advertised the post of Drivers vide notification number 03 of 2012 dated December 28, 2012. Hundreds of candidates had applied for the post among which 98 were selected for the post after their interview on October 18 this year. The 98 candidates were selected for the post on the basis of set eligibility rules. Candidates alleged that the S ervice selection board kept selection of some candidates with held and the concerned department is not issuing appointment orders even other candidates who were selected have already joined. . “We have been waiting for over two months now but the
appointment orders are yet to be issued,” they said. Interestingly the service selection board in its selection list has categorically said that the candidate whose selection has been kept withheld shall clear the discrepancy within one month from the publication of this select list positively and said that no certificate will be accepted after last date and moreover the candidates will lose the right of consideration and next in order of merit shall be considered by the Board. We have submitted all the certificates last month but the board is not interested to clear the d i s c r e p a n c y. T h e aggrieved candidates made a fervent appeal to the Chief Minister, Omar Abdullah, to intervene in the matter. Chairperson Service selection board when contacted by KNS said, “You need not worry about them. Ask them (candidates) to approach me in my Jammu office during office hours she said and banged the phone.
Last Date for Issue of Tender Documents: 18-01-2014 upto 2 P.M Last Date Receipt of Tenders: 21-01-2014 upto 2 P.M Tender Receiving Authority: Superintending Engineer J&K Lakes and Waterways Dev Authority DIPJK-NB: 2541
Sd/- Watershed Manager Watershed Management Division (L.D.A) Srinagar
Owner, Printer & Publisher : Suhail Malik, Editor-n-Chief : Shahana Malik, RNI No: JKBIL/2011/39764, Email: zabarwantimes@gmail.com Published from: Govt. Quarters (M-13) Magarmal Bagh Srinagar -190001, J&K, Printed at: Sangarmal Offset Press Humhama Sheikhpora Tele/Fax: 2478370 Cell No: 09999964750, 9796787844
Daily ZABARWAN TIMES
Handloom Weavers also to get Credit Cards for Lending Facility: Kichloo
Reviews overall functioning of departments, PSUs under I&C
tor Undertakings (PSUs) under his charge at Civil Secretariat, Jammu, Mr. Kichloo called for a vigorous drive to
of the state. He said Industrialisation was key to the solution of unemployment problem adding that the heads
in this regard. He stressed upon the need of skill upgradation of the unemployed youth to make them fit for
modernisation of Silk factory, Rajbagh and Bemina Woollen Mills, Srinagar respectively, whereas mod-
HOROSCOPE Aries
March 21-April 19
Today you might realize that you need to make a certain purchase, Aries. Perhaps your home or car requires some important repairs, or maybe some new equipment is necessary for your work. This could prove rather disheartening, as it might involve spending money that you’d rather use for something more exciting. Think of the trouble this expenditure should save you, however, and you’ll see the value of it all.
April 20-May 20
Emphasizing for a conducive atmosphere for economic growth and Industrial development in the State, the Minister of State for Industries & Commerce Mr. Sajad Ahmad Kichloo has said that the need of the hour was to create a land bank for setting up Industrial Estates in the hitherto uncovered districts. He asked the officers to cancel allotment of plots in various Industrial Estates where allottees have not been able to set up their units within of the various departments, and PSUs the prescribed time frame so that the remove encroachment of land in various I/Es of the state adding that close should device a calendar for round the same could be allotted in favour of the Lone News Agency Kanganbetween the respective Khan year News Agency Ganderbal coordination publicity campaigns about varinew and interested entrepreneurs. officers Soura of Industries & commerce, programmes Gulzar made News Agency Zahidous Bookself-employment Depot Chadoora He said that the commitments Revenue and police Department was incentives available for the enby the Chief Minister Tariq regarding es-Agency News Hawal Bashirand News Agency Nowhatta pivotal for the purpose. He also called trepreneurs under state and the centablishment of new Industrial estate Muzaffar Ali News AgencyIndustryAlamgariGovernment Bazar Budshah Agency LalHe Chowk for greater tral News Industrial packages. urged for should be fulfilled in letter and spirit. Abdullah Newspartnership Agency Lal Sikendar News Agency and Lal understandChowk for Chowk creating dignified job greater coordination Speaking at a meeting of the avenues for un-employed youth among concerned Gupkari News Agency Lalthe Chowk Rainaing News Agency Gund departments Kangan Heads of departments and Public Sec-
Zabarwan Times is available at
Khan News Agency Regal Chowk Rashid News Agency Dalgate Sheikh News Agency Hyderpora Hilal News Agency Budgam Lone News Agency Tangmarg Bhat News Agency Chadoora Bhat News Agency Magam Zargar News Agency Kunzar Dar News Agency Beerwah Bashir News Agency Sumbal Reshi News Agency Safapora Saleem News Agency Pattan Basharat News Agency Bandipora Reyaz News Agency Pampore Altaf News Agency Pulwama Javaid News Agency Qazigund he chaired here, the Chief Secretary mitigated. He also received brief Jeelani News Agency Baramulla G.M News Sopore asked the administrative Secretar- regardingAgency the status of road clearShah News Agency Kupwara News Agency Handwara ance, electricity situation and water ies to increase field visits and stepSultan up touring across the state so thatSheikh supply fromAgency the respective SecretarYounis News Agency Langate News Islamabad they are in a better position to get ies and directed them to personally Reshi News Agency Islamabad Three Way News Agency Tral detailed account of the overall sta- maintain presence on ground and Turray News Agency Tral under implementa-Badru News the Agency Bijbehara tus of projects supervise restoration efforts. tion and services offered by variousMalik News Chief Secretary stressed on Rahi News Agency Kulgam Agency also Arwani ensuring availability of essential departments to the people. Rah News Agency Byepass Shaheen News Agency Kargil
Committee of Secretaries meeting CS asks Secretaries to step up field visits
JAMMU, JANUARY 01 – Chief Secretary, Mohammad Iqbal khanday Wednesday emphasized on upgrading the monitoring mechanism of development projects and service delivery to ensure benefits reach to the people in time. Speaking at the periodic meeting of the Committee of Secretaries,
02. 01 .2014
Taurus
JAMMU, JANUARY 01-
Reviews departmental working, Post snowfall restorationeffort
SRINAGAR | THURSDAY
Referring to yesterdays snow fall in the valley and parts of Jammu region, the Chief Secretary said that officers at the District and Provincial level should be proactive and prompt to the needs of the people in the hour of emergency and challenge. He said restoration of road communication network and power supply which gets badly affected due to snow fall should receive top focus so that people are able to move freely and their difficulties
stocks by the CA&PD across the State besides keeping an eye on black marketeers and hoarders so that they do not indulge in creating false scarcity to increase prices of essential commodities. He said CA&PD officials should adopt a more proactive approach during the snow season and review situation on ground. The meeting also discussed various other matters pertaining to services, RFD, Vigilance clearance, Human resource management etc.
The weight of too many responsibilities, perhaps involving family, a job, or group affiliation, could be very much on your mind today, Taurus. You may feel like Atlas, carrying the world on your shoulders! You’re tired. Perhaps you need to reevaluate your commitments - your innate kindness may have caused you to make too many. Fulfill the ones you have, but think twice before making any new ones.
Gemini May 21-June 21
Job market. Mr. Kichloo also asked the officers to concentrate on modernisation of the infrastructure in various Industrial estates and PSUs to bring it in tune with the present day requirements. It was informed in the meeting that the centre has agreed to provide Rs 20 Cr and Rs 12 Cr for
Extend loan to maximum number of youth: LA panel to JK Bank JAMMU, JANUARY 01:- The Committee on Public Undertakings (PUC) of Jammu & Kashmir Legislative Assembly Wednesday directed Jammu & Kashmir Bank Ltd to extend credit assistance to maximum number of educated unemployed youth to enable them to establish their individual units and joint ventures. The Committee, which met under the chairmanship of MLA Mr. Mohammad Sharief Niaz here today, was convened to discuss and examine the CAG Audit report 2007-08 and 2009-10 pertaining to the Finance Department (Jammu & Kashmir Bank Ltd). Legislators, Syed Basharat Ahmad Bukhari, Mr. Sukhnandan, Mr. Rachpal Singh, Mr. Jugal Kishore, Dr. Shafi Ahmad Wani, Mrs. Indu Pawar and Mr. G. N. Monga, attended the meeting and stressed for expeditious sanctioning of loans to the educated youth. Threadbare discussion was held on Audit Paras including non-recovery of debts and interest. The Chairman of Jammu & Kashmir Bank Mr. Mushtaq Ahmad briefed the Committee about the Audit Paras and after satisfactory reply, the Committee decided to drop both these. Among others, Principal Accountant General J&K Dr. S.C. Panday, Principal Secretary to Chief Minister Mr. B. B. Vyas, Director General Accounts and Treasuries Mr. Altaf Ahmad, Special Secretary J&K Legislative Assembly Mr. M. R. Singh, President J&K Bank Mr. Mohammad Amin, Private Secretary J&K Bank, Mr. Shujat Hussain and other officers of Assembly Secretariat attended the meeting.
Sagar for maximising outreach of Rural Dev schemes Reviews RDD functioning in Kishtwar JAMMU, JANUARY 01Minister for Rural Development & Panchayats, Mr. Ali Muhammad Sagar today asked the officers of Rural Development Department to maximise the outreach of rural development schemes aimed at changing the face of rural society. Chairing a meeting to review the implementation of various rural development schemes in Kishtwar district here today, the Minister emphasised on the need to ensure transparency and observance of norms while enrolling beneficiaries for these schemes. Minister of State for Industries & Commerce, Mr. Sajad Ahmad Kichloo, who represents Kishtwar, and Mr. G. M. Saroori, who represents Inderwal constituency in the Assembly were also present in the meeting. Mr. Sagar directed the officers to
ensure that there was no delay in making payments to beneficiaries as per the guidelines of respective schemes. The Minister said a number of steps have been taken by Rural Development Department to inculcate transparency and accountability in its functioning. He said a toll free number and a grievance cell have already been set up for the purpose. Besides, he said, quality control mechanism has been set up at district level and the creation of ombudsman is in process.
ernisation of Industrial Estate BariBrahmana, Samba, Khanmoh and Rangreth has already been taken up with the Central assistance. Mr. Kichloo asked the management of the J&K Minerals Limited to float global tenders for exploration of Saphire mines in Paddar after giving wide publicity to it.
On the availability of ground level staff in the Department, Mr. Sagar directed for convening a joint meeting of recruiting agencies and heads of other field agencies to expedite recruitment process. The meeting was told that 2438 sanitary units were set up in the District under Nirmal Bharat Abhiyan and 5000 such units have been projected for the coming year. Similarly, under Integrated Watershed Management Programme five proj-
Vice Chancellor, Shri Mata Vaishno Devi University calls on Governor JAMMU, JANUARY 01:
Professor Sudhir K Jain, Vice Chancellor, Shri Mata Vaishno Devi University, Katra, called on Governor N.N. Vohra, who is the Chancellor of the University here at Rajbhavan today. Professor Jain briefed the Governor about the to date status of the ongoing infrastructure development projects in the University and the broad approach being developed for the ad-
Govt adopts new measures to transform dev scenario across State: Bhalla JAMMU, JANUARY 01-Minister for Housing, Horticulture and Culture, Raman Bhalla, has said Government has taken various historical initiatives to revolutionize the developmental scenario across the State with emphasis on improving living standards of people living in periphery areas. The Minister was addressing a large gathering after launching various development works in Ward No.45 in Preet Nagar, here today. Mr. Bhalla asked the Jammu Municipal Corporation (JMC) to complete the works within stipulated time frame for which Rs. 10 lakh has been released. The Minister asked the executing agency to use quality material on the construction adding that the public money should be used to create durable assets. He said upgradation of lanes and drains has been taken up in the first phase and the remaining work would be started soon after completion of first phase ongoing works. He called upon the people to cooperate with executing agencies in completing the project within stipulated time frame. The Minister called upon the people to protect the public property and keep a close watch on developmental works in their respective areas.
JAMMU, JANUARY 1: MLA, M. Y. Tarigami, who is chairman of the Committee on Environment (EC) of Jammu & Kashmir Legislative Assembly, has urged for pooling all the resources to maintain water quality in various water sources including water supply schemes, water bodies and Irrigation Khuls and wetlands. He said quality standard as laid down in the Environment Act needs to be followed in letter and spirit by the Public Health Engineering (PHE), Irrigation and Flood Control departments adding that lakes and Water Ways Development Authority and State Pollution Control (PCB) and the
June 22-July 22
Normally you tend to be a very spiritually oriented person, Cancer, but today you might find metaphysical concepts of all kinds rather baffling. Whether these are ideas you’ve embraced for a long time or new ones you’ve just discovered, you may find nagging little doubts creeping in, temporarily causing your faith to waver. This is a healthy development, however.
Leo
July 23-August 22 Today you might learn something about a friend that could be rather disconcerting, Leo. There could be a dark side to this person that you weren’t previously aware of, and this could cause you to want to withdraw for a while and reevaluate your involvement with this individual. When considering it, remember that we all have our dark sides. Could what you’ve discovered simply be this factor, or does this go too far beyond it for you.
Virgo
August 23-September 22
Outside responsibilities might temporarily interfere with your love life, Virgo. You may feel a strong desire to get together with a love partner early in the evening, but circumstances may necessitate your working odd hours. This can be frustrating, as you’ve been looking forward to this for a long time, but you could meet your friend later in the evening. Don’t be afraid to ask. Most people understand when situations like this crop up.
Libra
September 23-October 23 Today you’re likely to find your routine too boring for words, Libra, and may have a sudden powerful urge to cut loose and play some serious hooky. Still, you may feel the pull of obligation. This conflicted feeling should pass. If it persists beyond today, however, you might need to reevaluate certain areas of your life. There are lots of opportunities out there, and life is too short to be stuck in a situation that doesn’t allow you to grow.
Scorpio
You could be feeling especially sensual and passionate today, Scorpio, and you’ll want to get together with a love interest. However, other responsibilities could get in your way. This could provide you with the perfect excuse to sink into gloom, but don’t fall into this trap. Get whatever business you’re facing handled and out of the way. Or perhaps you can arrange to finish it tomorrow. Then set up that hot date!
missions in the next Academic Session. The Governor advised Professor Jain to take all required measures to continuously raise the standards of teaching and research. He also reiterated his view that the post graduate students must be given maximum possible exposure through participation in competitions and other activities which will raise their academic standards and confidence to progressively execute projects on their own.
Tarigami chairs Environment Committee Meet
Panel seeks inter departmental report on water pollution within month
Cancer
October 24-November 21
Malhotra asks Council employees to work with dedication, responsibility JAMMU, JANUARY 01: Chairman, J&K Legislative Council, Amrit Malhotra, has asked the employees to work with dedication and added responsibility to achieve the targets. The Chairman was addressing the employees of Council Secretariat here at a function organized in connection with celebration of new year here today. Deputy Chairman, J&K Legislative Council, Javed Ahmad Rana, MLC, Sham Lal Baghat, Secretary , J&K Legislative Council, Mohammad Ashraf Mir, Additional Secretary of the Council, Mohammad Maqbool Bhat besides other senior officers were present on the occasion. Wishing employees a happy new year 2014, the Chairman hoped that they would work hard to achieve the targets.
You may have your ups and downs today, Gemini. You could get at least one phone call of the “good news, bad news” variety, and this could have your moods swinging back and forth like a pendulum. Try to stay centered. Take the good news as encouragement, and as for the bad news, try to consider it objectively and figure out ways to turn it to your advantage. There’s always a way. Hang in there!
Directorate of Environment have an onerous duty in this regard. Speaking at the meeting of the EC here today held in the Central Hall of Jammu and Kashmir Legislature today, Mr. Tarigami asked the concerned departments to come up with concrete measures and plans to address factors responsible for contaminating water sources in the State especially water for human consumption. He said measures taken up so far in this regard were not upto the mark which was a cause of serious concern. Legislators, Mr. Mohammad Sharief Niaz, Mr. Yash Paul Kundal, Mr. Rashpaul Singh and Prof. Garu Ram Bhagat attended the meeting and gave their valuable suggestions for conservation of water bodies and checking water polluting factors in the State. They also called for an appropriate flood strategy which is one of the causes of water pollution besides damaging valuable life and property of the people adding that an interdepartmental report about causes of water imparity and remedial measures for study of the EC. The report should be submitted to the Assembly Secretariat within a month
for examination of the Committee members. The panel also directed the concerned departments for launching vigorous awareness campaign about importance of checking water pollution. The pannel called for identifying areas of common activity which can be followed up jointly by the EC and concerned departments. Mr. Tarigami said that drinking water being supplied to the people should be wholesome, free from impurities adding that water testing laboratories should be set up at district levels besides establishing sewerage treatment plants in each district. He said water quality in rivers, khuls and water bodies also need to be freed from all impurities as these are the main source of various water supply schemes. Earlier, Principal Secretary, PHE, Irrigation and Flood Control Dr. Pawan Kotwal briefed the Committee about the measures underway to improve water quality in various sources in the State. He said 21 water quality testing Laboratories at district level and 45 at sub-divisional level have been set up in the Sate so far.
Sagittarius November 22-December 21
ou may feel a bit of disappointment today . You might tend to view whatever snags you’ve hit on the path to accomplishing your goals as personal failures, and if you let it, this idea could persist with you throughout the day. Try to remain objective, and don’t lose sight of the big picture. You haven’t even lost a battle - at worst, it’s a minor conflict! Chances are that if you continue working hard you’ll still win the war!
Capricorn December 22-January 19
A rather disheartening phone call could come to you today, Capricorn. This might bring news of a setback in one of your projects that is only temporary but nonetheless frustrating. You’ll probably have to deal with some trivial little details you’d rather not bother with, and this could take up too much valuable time. Hang in there - you’re still doing well! Don’t let your frustrations get the best of you.
Aquarius January 20-February 18
After the rush of energy over the past few days, Aquarius, today you may feel a powerful letdown. Not every day can be filled with adventure and excitement. For now, you just need to take care of the routine matters that are a byproduct of life on Earth. However, keep in mind that there are many weekends coming up, and with the right kind of planning you can get excitement back into your life.
Pisces
February 19-March 20 A goal that you’ve been trying to reach may be temporarily stalled, Pisces, and you could be tempted to slip into despair, wondering if it will ever really happen. Remember that the keyword for today is “temporary.” Whatever obstacles are in your way will eventually be overcome and your goal should be to continue to advance in the direction you want. In the meantime, take care of your chores.
Editorial/Opinion The Daily
Zabarwan Times Thursday, 02 January 2014
Just one snowfall and administration collapses
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t is strange and shocking that all weaponry in the armory of the state government has failed with just one snowfall which is not anything abnormal in a hilly state like Jammu & Kashmir. The disaster management which for the full year arranges meetings, seminars and indulges in a lot of publicity has failed disastrously as the power supply, water supply, road connectivity and other essential services became the first casualties followed by black marketing, hoarding of essential commodities and sky rocketing prices. What a pity and what a state. The whole government machinery was punched down to earth by one snowfall and for two days everything in the name of administration went as if underground. When the concerned authorities were interviewed by official electronic media, they as usual exhibited their courage and tall claims were aired regarding the normal supply of electricity and snow clearance. But as soon as the news was over the two news rooms were flooded with dozens of phone calls in which the people were asking regarding the whereabouts of both missing electricity and snow clearance machines. From Kulgam, Anantnag, Pulwama and Ganderbal several callers told that they have not sighted any snow clearance machine and all these claims of the administration were just false and baseless. Even Radio and Doordarshan remained without electricity supply continuously for about two days. This is happening in a crucial year in which Lok Sabha and Assembly polls are to be held and people are going to decide the fate of the coalition government which according to even senior leaders of congress has failed to deliver in every field though there was a lot of financial support provided to it by the central government. The snowfall has exposed the power development department and once again made it clear that this department needs a complete overhaul and whatever the tall claims this department boasts are always a bundle of lies and only to deviate the attention of the people. The generation losses, the electricity thefts, the hooking and all other things are even prevalent in the most developed countries of the world also and Jammu & Kashmir is not a exception. In fact this department has no vision, no policy and no mechanism to provide uninterrupted power supply in normal days and it totally collapses during the winter season. In fact this department should have been on the toes to rectify if any fault was caused by the snow but it kept on lingering the things for the whole night and the second day also and put the people to the enormous difficulties and problems.
Daily
ZABARWAN TIMES 9
Thursday, 02 January 2014
Drinking Water Facility for Villages
F
ive crore people living in over one lakh habitations in villages in our country do not have access to safe drinking water even today. According to official figures twenty two per cent rural families have to walk for at least half a kilometer or more to fetch water (mostly it is the women who have to bear the burden). The percentage of such families is the maximum in Manipur, Tripura, Odisha, Meghalaya, Jharkhand and Madhya Pradesh. Fifteen per cent of households in villages depend on uncovered wells and other unimproved sources like rivers, springs, ponds for drinking water. Also eighty five per cent of all drinking water resources in villages are based on underground sources of water and in many of these areas water is contaminated. Only 30.80 percent of the rural population has access to tap water. In fact there are only four states which have been able to bring fifty per cent or more of the rural areas under piped water supply. Many of the states are yet to fully comply with the Supreme Court order on supply of potable water in government schools. The latest available data shows that less than the 44 per cent government schools in villages have drinking water facility. During the national consultation in Delhi held recently on the progress of national rural drinking water programmers and related issues , it was revealed that in spite of this unsatisfactory scenario with regard potable water availability in villages many of the states have failed to fully utilize the funds allocated by the centre under the various heads of NRDWP. To achieve the objective of providing drinking water facilities to all the villages, the Government is bringing about a major paradigm shift in the National Rural Drinking Water Programme in the XIIth Five Year plan
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period. In the backdrop of over extraction of ground water in most parts of the country, the emphasis is to shift away from ground water to surface water. The focus would be on piped water supply and minimizing the use of hand pumps. The target is to ensure individual household connections to at least 35 per cent of the population in villages by 2017 against only 13 per cent today. In order to encourage the villagers to take water connections, the Government is roping in Accredited Social Health Activists (ASHA). A recent order said the ASHAs will get an incentive of 75 rupees for motivating each of the families in villages to take individual household tap connection. The states can use the money from the support funds allocated to states under the NRDWP. The norm of 40 litres of water per capita per day( LPCD) in villages was set way back in 1972 but now under the 12th five year plan , it is being increased from 40 to 55 litres .In the 12th plan the target is to cover at least half of the population to get 55 LPCD water within in their house hold premises or within 100 meter radius. Once the states are able to increase the per capita availability of drinking water, it will help in bridging the gap to some extent between urban areas and rural areas. Under NRDWP, States have the flexibility to fix their own supply norms. The Drinking Water and Sanitation Minister Bharatsinh Solanki has urged the states to aim at 55 LPCD , this he says will enable higher level of household connections and reduce the burden on women and girls in fetching water from hand pumps and public taps as well as reducing risk of contamination. Quality of drinking water availability is a major concern in villages many parts of the country are affected by contamination of arsenic and fluoride, which are
considered the most hazardous in terms of their effect on health. In the budget proposals for 2013-14 Rs 1,400 crore will be provided for the setting-up water purification plants as there are still 2,000 arsenic and 12,000 fluoride affected rural habitations in the country. Then there are contaminants like iron, salinity uranium and pesticides. The centre is assisting States affected with Chemical contamination of drinking water, and those States which have cases of Japanese and Acute Encephalitis Syndrome through a provision under the NRDWP by allocating 5% of the NRDWP funds for Improving the quality of drinking water Given the growing importance of water quality issues, under the 12th plan dedicated funding will be provided to States with quality affected habitations, over and above the normal NRDWP allocation to the State. Highest priority will be given to arsenic and fluoride affected habitations. Part of the funding would also be made available to tackle bacteriological contamination in the priority districts with high incidence of J apanese and Acute Encephalitis Syndrome as identified by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare Unfortunately many of the states like Chhattisgarh, Gujarat, Haryana, Jammu & Kashmir, Jharkhand, Kerala, and Uttarakhand & Tripura are yet to submit proposals to get the benefit from 5% Water Quality earmarked fund. World over lack of drinking water and sanitation facilities account for over nine per cent of the diseases and more than six per cent of deaths. In our country where more than half the population resorts to open defecation, the situation is worse. It is in this scenario that major emphasis in the 12th plan is strengthening convergence between rural drinking water supply and rural sanitation by taking up villages covered with piped
water supply to get Open Defecation Free status priority and vice versa. The 12th plan draft document says that all government schools and anganwadis in government or community buildings will be provided with water supply for drinking and for toilets as per relevant quality norms by convergence of NRDWP for existing schools and Sarva Shiksha Abhiyan and for new schools set up under SSA. For private schools this will be enforced the right to education provisions. All community toilets built with public funds and maintained for public use will be provided with running water supply under NRDWP. Care will be taken to ensure that minimum distance is maintained between the toilet systems and water sources, to alleviate the problem of nitrate contamination. A part of NRDWP outlay will be set aside for integrated Habitat Improvement Projects to provide housing, water and sanitation facilities in rural areas at par with urban areas. Participation of the beneficiaries especially women in drink water supply schemes is also proposed. In another initiative Solar powered pumps will be provided for implementation in remote, small habitations and those with irregular power supply by converging subsidy available under Ministry of New and Renewable Energy. Waste water treatment and recycling will also be an integral part of every water supply plan or project. India is fast becoming a water stressed country and over and above everything else there is need to generate awareness about protecting drinking water sources from contamination, regular testing of drinking water sources, conserving rainwater in tanks and ponds, water recharge and water saving devices so that everyone in the country is able to get the basic facility of drinking water.
Alcohol and Drug Abuse: Causes Effect and Control
aunching its flagship world drug report 2012, United Nations Office on Drug and Crime (UNODC) said, "Heroin, cocaine and other drugs continue to kill around 200,000 people a year, shattering families and bringing misery to thousands of other people, insecurity and the spread of HIV". Enormity of substance abuse problem in India is no less different. Its magnitude can well be understood with a survey, over a decade back pointing out that over 73 million persons were using alcohol and drugs. The geographical location of the country further makes it highly vulnerable to the problem of drug abuse and despite a number of provisions it is rising unchecked. Article 47 of the Constitution provides that "... the State shall endeavour to bring about prohibition of the consumption except for medicinal purposes of intoxicating drinks and of drugs which are injurious to health." Also the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 1985, was enacted to curb drug abuse with its section 71 containing provision for setting up of rehabilitation and treatment centres for addicts. Besides, India being a signatory to three related United Nations Conventions, is under an international obligation to, curb drug abuse. Not lagging behind on the front, the Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment has been implementing the Scheme of Prevention of Alcoholism and Substance (Drug) Abuse since 198586. The Scheme, which was revised twice in 1994 and 1999, at present provides financial support to NGOs and employers mainly for creating Awareness and Preventive Education, Drug Awareness and Counselling Centres (CCs), Treatment- Cum- Rehabilitation Centres (TC), Workplace Prevention Programme (WPP), De-addiction Camps (ACDC), NGO forum for Drug Abuse Prevention Innovative Interventions etc. Apart from this, the Ministry takes up awareness generation programme every year disseminating information, education and communication (IEC) materials, organizing programmes in schools and community, holding exhibitions and publishing newsletters and journals.
At present there are about 41 CCs and 401 TCs are functioning with the support of the ministry in the country. Besides, a large number of NGO’s are involved in this endeavour, Ministry of social Justice and Empowerment notified in December last year a scheme of National Awards for Outstanding Services in the field of Prevention of Alcoholism and Substance (Drug) Abuse, in order to recognize the efforts and encourage excellence in the field of prevention of substance abuse and rehabilitation of its victims. The Scheme is applicable to institutions and individuals working in this field. Under the scheme, awards will be presented every year to the most effective or outstanding services rendered as individuals as well as institutions in the prevention of abuse of
generation and prevention of alcoholism and Substance (drug) abuse. · Best Non-Profit organization like an NGO or Self Help Group, Trust or community based set up. · Best Research or Innovation for an Institution which has conducted research on issues related to addiction and has developed new techniques on treatment and preventive modules, etc or have undertaken innovative measures for prevention of addiction and evolved techniques to identify early phase addicts. · Best Awareness Campaign for outstanding awareness campaign through consistent and comprehensive coverage on addiction related issues on sustained basis, to be awarded to any institution or organisation other than an educational
Article 47 of the Constitution provides that
"... The State shall endeavour to bring about prohibition of the consumption except for medicinal purposes of intoxicating drinks
and of drugs which are injurious to health." alcohol; narcotic drugs; psychotropic substances and other addictive substances. The awards will be presented every year, on the 26th June, which has been declared by the United Nations as the International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking. The awards will be given in ten different categories to institutions and individuals. The awards will include cash prize ranging from one lakh to five lakh rupees. In the Institutional Category the awards will be for · Best Integrated Rehabilitation Centre for Addicts (IRCA) for providing rehabilitation services to alcoholics and drug users. · Best Regional Resource and Training Centre (RRTC) providing exemplary contribution in the field of prevention of addiction. · Best Panchayati Raj or Municipal Body working for prevention of alcoholism and Substance (drug) abuse. · Best Educational Institution doing outstanding works in Awareness
institution. In the Individual Category awards will be for · Outstanding individual achievement by a professional such as general duty or specialist medical doctor including psychiatrist, treatment and rehabilitation professional, psychologist, clinical psychologist, skill trainer who has made outstanding achievement in the field of prevention of alcoholism and substance (drug) abuse and rehabilitation of addicts. · Outstanding individual achievement by a nonprofessional such as activist, students leader, etc. who has made outstanding achievement in the field of prevention of alcoholism and substance (drug) abuse and rehabilitation of addicts. · Former Addict, who has done outstanding work in the field of awareness generation or de-addiction or rehabilitation for a former addict. Besides, deaddiction camps are organized regularly
to reach out to uncovered areas. The Ministry has also set up a National Centre for Drug Abuse Prevention (NCDAP) in the National Institute of Social Defence (NISD) for capacity building and training of NGOs running CCs and TCs. It is also supporting eight NGOs working in the field of drug abuse prevention to function as Regional Resource and Training Centres (RRTCs). Pursuant to the Central Government has already approved the revised scheme (Scheme for Prevention of Alcoholism and Substance (Drugs) Abuse, 2008) to create awareness and educate people about the ill-effects of alcoholism and substance abuse on individual, family, workplace and society at large and to provide for the whole range of community based services for the identification, motivation, counselling, de-addiction, after care and rehabilitation for WPR of addicts. However, there is a need to revise the allocations as not many Five-Year Plans went without it. The Consumer Price Index has witnessed more than 100% increase while infrastructure and logistics costs have also gone up. The cost of drugs and services including substitute therapy require higher expenditure in addition to the need for revising the renumeration structure of professionals to be engaged on par with those engaged by the National AIDS Control Organisation (NACO) and Ministry of Health & Family Welfare. There is no provision in the existing Scheme for providing living expenses (especially food) for the admitted addicts, necessary in the case of addicts from BPL families, street children, beggars and other vulnerable sections of the society. It was felt that there is a need to incorporate the concept of Whole Person Recovery (WPR) in the objectives of the Scheme. It aims at not just getting the addicted individual off alcohol or drugs but to ensure that the person is 'drug free, crime free and gainfully employed'. The WPR objectives include adaptation to work and responsibility, social reintegration, personal growth and self acceptance and acceptance of higher values.
Disclaimer : The contents and comments appearing in any article published in this paper are purely the personal opinion of the writer.